The Great Gotham Challenge - "Central Park Sprint"

LOCATION:  New York City, New York, USA

Photo above is property of The Great Gotham Challenge

Photo above is property of ESCAPETHEROOMers

📝 ETR DECODER

🔑 GAME: Central Park Sprint
📅 DATE PLAYED: July 20, 2024
🎬 GENRE: Puzzle Hunt
🧠 DIFFICULTY (Based on 4 ppl): 7/10
👥 TOTAL # OF PLAYERS: Up to 4 ppl
🕒 LENGTH OF TIME: 1.5 - 2 Hrs.
💰 PRICE: Starting at $100 + Fees
☎️ BOOKING TYPE: Private ( you play with your own team)
🔓 ESCAPED/ COMPLETED?: Yes

📖 THE EXPERIENCE

We are returning to challenge ourselves with another GGC event! The previous one we participated in was the "GGC MMXXIII" which is one of their primary events lasting longer in terms of hours. This one is a condensed version taking place on Saturdays throughout the summer. Make sure to visit their website for additional details, as they organize similar events at different locations across the city.

The challenge commenced at 1 PM. There was a slight breeze at the start, but it became warmer as the event progressed. While our team took the leisure route, other competitive teams immediately "sprinted" when the game master shouted "GO!"

As usual, each team received an envelope that was simultaneously opened by all teams. For this challenge, there is no need to download any apps. Instead, your team will access a designated website to discover clues, input solutions, and request hints. The website is synchronized for all team members, meaning that when one member uses a hint or submits a solution, it updates for the entire team. Each puzzle offers multiple hints, and the time penalty varies based on how quickly you request a clue. You have the option to skip directly to the clue you need, but remember that you can only backtrack one clue, so proceed with caution. Depending on your team's objective (casual or competitive), you may want to strategize when to seek hints. Additionally, a walkthrough is available for each puzzle if you are unable to solve it even after receiving the final clue, but this option incurs the highest penalty.

We found that the puzzles in this abridged version were easier compared to the full-length game. Once we solved the first puzzle, we were well on our way to the secret destination. We noticed that dividing the teams in different locations in this challenge was more difficult, leading to multiple instances of us bumping into other teams looking for the same clue.

There were a few unexpected encounters with individuals that made us question whether they were part of the game, but it was thrilling to discover that they were indeed involved. Some hidden spots impressed us, especially considering the high volume of visitors to this popular location. One of the puzzles we enjoyed the most required us to hone our senses and find how the clue seamlessly integrated with the natural environment, showcasing the puzzle creator's ingenuity in crafting a such a puzzle.

One minor note I would like to point out to the creators is to consider the actions required of players in a crowded setting, as some activities could potentially inconvenience those around them. For instance, obtaining one of the clues posed a challenge for us in a highly congested area.

Overall, we had an absolutely fantastic time and got a ton of exercise in! We were treated to a special keepsake and a delightful bag of picnic goodies. The treats were incredibly delicious, and I am eager to explore more experiences with GGC just for the food alone!

Photos above are property of ESCAPETHEROOMers

ℹ️ ADDITIONAL INFO

Your meet-up location will be provided on your ticket.
The game will proceed rain or shine (unless you receive additional information from the organizer).
You'll be able to get to every location by foot.
Materials you might need that could help with the puzzle hunt: notepad, pen, clipboard, cellphone, cellphone charger, water, comfortable walking shoes, umbrella, light raincoat, and sunglasses.

BOOK NOW

(If you do decide to try this game, give us a shoutout or tag us on social media so we know you heard it from "ESCAPETHEROOMers"!)

Disclosure: We thank The Great Gotham Challenge for comping our tickets for this game. Although complimentary admission was generously provided, it does not impact our opinion on the review whatsoever.